Tom Raffield

Tom Raffield is a British designer specialising in homeware and lighting. Tom founded his studio in 2008 after graduating from Falmouth College of Arts with a degree in 3D Sustainability and Design. During his studies, Tom discovered the ancient art of steam-bending wood, a process used to bend solid wood beyond its perceived limits. This process, often used in shaping a ship’s hull or a violin’s waist, is seldom used in modern industry. However, Tom Raffield found that the intricate, eco-friendly method fit the ethos of his studio perfectly and now finds himself one of the world leaders in the craft.

As well as designing pieces for his studio, Tom has also taken part in much bigger, one-off projects such as designing installations at the Chelsea Flower Show, creating a steam-bent coffee kiosk, and designing and building his own “wavy wooden house” featured in Grand Designs. Tom Raffield and his studio have won many notable awards such as The Lighting Design Association’s Lighting Design Award and 5 Star Tradestand Award at the Chelsea Flower Show 2019.

"Having such a good understanding of the material and the process ensures there are no restrictions on creativity – knowing that anything can be achieved is extraordinarily liberating.” – Tom Raffield